2013 – Newfoundland and Labrador

Dr Roger Butler is recognized for his outstanding contributions as a family physician, teacher, and his dedicated work within the field of geriatrics and on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Society.

After completing his medical degree and family medicine residency at Memorial University (MUN), Dr Butler started practising in Newfoundland in 1980. He received Certification from the College of Family Physicians of Canada in 1980, and became a Fellow of the College in 1994. He was appointed Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at Memorial University in 1985, and Associate Professor in 1991.

With a high level of expertise in geriatrics, Dr Butler is often consulted for his professional input on dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, elder abuse, and seniors’ care. He has presented on these topics extensively within Canada and abroad, and is currently involved in a number of related research projects.

Dr Butler served as a member of the CFPC’s Care of the Elderly Committee from 1999 to 2002 and again in 2009. He was Chair of the Family Medicine Postgraduate Program Audit Committee at Memorial University from 1996 to 2012.

In 2007, Dr Butler received the Award of Excellence from the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Family Physicians for his work with the Alzheimer’s Society. In 2009, through the MUN Family Medicine Residency Teaching program he was awarded the Gus Rowe Teaching Award.

In his spare time, Dr Butler enjoys hiking, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. He and his wife, Christine, have four sons, Matt, Phil, Greg, and Zack, and they recently became first-time grandparents to 15-month-old Claire. There are now lots of trips to Corner Brook to spend time with the baby.